Sometimes you can't see the forest for the trees. Or in this case, Luther Forest.

There is speculation that Apple Inc. may be behind Project Azalea, the code name for a top-secret plan for a mega computer chip factory that would likely cost up to $10 billion. The consulting firm orchestrating the search has been in contact with state officials and has toured Luther Forest Technology Campus where GlobalFoundries has a $4.6 billion chip fab.

The theory was that Apple needs one of its chip suppliers to build a facility to satisfy the incredible demand for the iPhone and iPad.

But a case can be made that Project Azalea is really a stalking horse for GlobalFoundries.

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Two summers ago, GlobalFoundries approached the state with a plan to build a second fab at Luther Forest as part of an expansion that would cost twice as much as the first fab.

But the proposal — which would require additional state subsidies — was leaked and it failed to get much political support, especially since the state had already handed out $1.4 billion for the first fab.

Deloitte, the consulting firm behind the search, may be able to make a much stronger (and seemingly more objective) case for new subsidies. And it can pitch the project to other states like Oregon without having political leaders in Albany feel like they are being played.

But nothing will stop Dyson from bringing his decades of expertise in state government and energy infrastructure to the commission — not even work that he needs to get done at his vineyard and winery in Italy.

Dyson is vacationing with his family in Tuscany. But he's also there during a busy time at the vineyard, called Villa Pillo, when the annual budget and pruning plans must be set.

Scientists at General Electric Co.'s Global Research Center in Niskayuna rolled out the latest version of the sleigh they hope Santa Claus will use Monday night as he heads out on his annual Christmas deliveries.

They've given the sleigh an icephobic coating that prevents ice formation; OLED, for organic light-emitting diode, fixtures on the front to light the way; a sleigh frame made of ceramic matrix composites that are as strong as metal but far lighter; the latest air traffic management technology so he doesn't startle other pilots; and Durathon batteries, made at GE's downtown Schenectady plant, that can provide plenty of backup power if the reindeer need a rest.

The scientists also have added other features, many of which are being developed at the Niskayuna labs. No doubt Santa will reward them for their efforts.